Ricky Tomlinson coming to St Helens for musical comedy Irish Annies

A celebration of Ireland and Irish culture, 'Irish Annies' is touring the UK and Ireland around the St Patricks Day celebrations in March.

This includes a show at St Helens Theatre Royal, featuring performances from Ricky Tomlinson, Asa Murphy, Catherine Rice and six-piece band The Shenanigans.

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The musical comedy is a celebration of Irish culture (Image: Irish Annie's)

The well-reviewed musical follows pub landlady Annie and her regular madcap of customers on a fun night of comedy, music and mayhem, featuring original tracks written for the show by writer and actor Asa Murphy.

Ricky Tomlinson, well known for his performances in Brookside, Cracker, and The Royle Family, will perform as himself as a celebrity guest in the fictional pub.

Also a keen musician on both the banjo and harmonica, Ricky said: "This show is a delight to be part of, with a wonderful cast of characters and beautiful original and classic Irish music. 

"Come and enjoy the show, I guarantee you will have a ball."

Ricky Tomlinson will star in the well-reviewed stage show (Image: Irish Annie's)

Created by Asa Murphy, and co-produced by Bill Em Productions, Irish Annies premiered in Liverpool a few years ago and was an instant classic for fans.

Working in the entertainment industry for 18 years, Asa Murphy said: "This show is a celebration of everything that makes Irish culture and the people of Ireland so special. Laughter, music, and the ability to make people face life’s difficult obstacles through friendship.

"I am very proud that the show has been so well received with my family originating from Cork and Tralee and many still living in Ireland.”

Catherine Rice on stage for Irish Annie's (Image: Irish Annie's)

Irish Annie's will come to St Helens Theatre Royal on Sunday, March 12 from 7.30pm.